Spotlight: Arezzo, TuscanyCity of Oscar-Winning 'La Vita e Bella'

Film lovers may wish
to know that the Oscar-winning La Vita e
Bella (Life is Beautiful) by Roberto Benigni was filmed in Arezzo. As you walk through the old town you can see
signs featuring film locations.

Arezzo’s Piazza Grande
is a special place to see, with its sloping square and surrounding medieval
buildings. The 14th century Church of Santa Maria della Pieve is a main
landmark with beautiful curved steps leading up from the square. On the first
Sunday of every month there is an antiques market in the old part of town,
where the Piazza and surrounding streets are lined with stalls selling amazing
pieces of furniture and bric-a-brac. There is something for everyone, from
classic Italian antique furniture to 1960’s kitchen chairs and mini-bars. It is the perfect way to spend a Sunday
morning, followed by a pizza of course for lunch in one of the many nearby
restaurants. Also make time for the many other quaint shops and beautiful
antique stores.

Garibaldi in Piazza Grande

Must See SightPiazza Grande

Predominant languageItalian

Most memorable experienceDiscovering the old
part of town! Also in the summer they hold a jousting tournament with
contestants from Arezzo’s 4 quarters. Competition is fierce and the atmosphere
electric. Booking seats is recommended
because the standing room can get rather raucous!

Best places for a single girl or groups of
girls to go out

The Italian way is to
dress up (heels, tan, and make-up all seem the standard) and take a walk along
the ‘corso,’ or main street. There are plenty of places to stop for a drink along
the way and lots of people-watching in store

Safety & Medical Tips

Medical advice:In Italy you can only
buy drugs in a pharmacy, unlike the US/UK where over-the-counter drugs are
available in supermarkets and small convenience stores. Drugs are more
expensive in Italy when compared to the UK. For pain relief, Tachipirina is like Aspirin and for women's infections (such as yeast infections, aka thrush) there is over-the-counter Cantestan.

With Contributions by Tracey LegaTracey is a UK expat, married to an Italian, proud Mum of 2 and has lived in Arezzo for 2 years.